The Pembroke Castle

Everyone knows that Primrose Hill has one of the best views in the city. On a summer's eve why not take a walk to the summit, survey all before you, then head to this charming nearby pub for one of the warmest welcomes in north London. The areas most famous for its large concentration of celebrity residents but this doesn't spoil things - you might spot a few famous faces in the crowd but it's a very down-to-earth establishment. The flagstoned beer garden is wonderfully spacious, so even if you can't get a table there's plenty of standing room and somewhere to rest your drink. You'll be able to see friends wander up towards the hill over the low wall, then lure them in. Added to this is a delectable selection of Mediterranean cookery - the portions aren't huge but they will make up for it with summery flavour and novel combinations. On Saturday nights the Hampstead Comedy Club takes over in an upstairs room, bringing top-class stand-up acts to the public for under a tenner.